THE Philippine Red Cross (PRC) held the second year of the Kadugo Recognition Ceremony, which recognizes PRC's blood donors and partners in Central Luzon on Nov. 13, 2024.
PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang graced the occasion.
Meanwhile, PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon gave an inspirational message to awardees and guests virtually as he was leading the ongoing operations of the PRC for typhoons Nika and Ofel, which affected most parts of Luzon.
"Since 1947, we have been the first blood bank in the nation, delivering lifesaving blood to hospitals across the country. As co-chair of the National Blood Council, I stand firm in the belief that no hospital should ever be without blood, and no person should ever be deprived of the lifesaving resource they need," Gordon said.
Some 345 blood allies and benefactors of the PRC in Bulacan, Pampanga, Olongapo, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Tarlac and Aurora were awarded Blood Samaritan Awards, Outstanding Blood Services Partners of the Year, Special Awards, Testimonial Plaque, Blood Services Platinum Awards, Scroll of Honor, Diploma of Service, and Certificate of Appreciation.
"You are unsung heroes, and your actions speak volumes about the power of kindness and humanity. Your contributions ensure that we can continue to provide lifesaving blood to those in need, delivering hope and healing to countless individuals and their families," Pang remarked.
According to the PRC Blood Services, it collected 504,590 blood units and served 259,978 patients from January to October 2024. PRC's target is to reach approximately 750,000 blood units this year.
To date, the PRC has 108 blood service facilities, 32 blood centers, 76 blood collecting stations and 15 apheresis centers.